About Diabetes

Diabetes is a word that is widely recognised but what it means to you if you have the diagnosis, is a very individual thing.

For most people who do not have diabetes, their awareness comes from the media or from someone specific whom they know. This means that those around us are often not aware that there are different types and different ways in which it can be managed. My service provides support and advice that is exactly tailored to the individual challenges and strengths of your diabetes.

Diabetes is a serious health condition where the body cannot control the amount of glucose in the blood. Glucose is the main fuel on which our bodies run and insulin is needed to make that happen. A diabetes diagnosis means there is a problem with insulin.

Without fully functioning insulin, glucose cannot be used and so it accumulates in the blood. When there is persistently too much glucose in the blood, some or all of the symptoms listed below will appear. If allowed to continue, high blood glucose levels can cause life-changing health problems.

The common symptoms of diabetes are:

  • Being very thirsty
  • Going to the toilet a lot, including at night
  • Being more tired than usual
  • Blurred vision
  • Repeated or persistent thrush
  • Losing weight without meaning to

I am experienced in all areas of diabetes; type 1, type 2, gestational and the rarer genetic forms. as well as impaired glucose tolerance. I love working with people at all stages of their diabetes journey: Whether you are newly diagnosed, changing medication, find yourself stuck in a bit of a rut or facing a major lifestyle change such as moving out of home for the first time or starting retirement, I can help you.

Diabetes is now so common that it is often underestimated just how tough it is to live with day-in day-out. Don’t be afraid to get support – I will work in a totally non-judgemental way to understand your needs and to help you feel in control of your life and your diabetes.

Healthy eating advice is as relevant to people with diabetes as it is to people without but healthy eating alone is not enough. The balance between food, activity and insulin (accounting for medications) is vital if you want to be in control of your diabetes and free to enjoy your life without diabetes controlling you.

Your diabetes and my service

I have been working with people with diabetes for over ten years. I am passionate about tailoring recommendations and advice to fit with the needs of you and your lifestyle so that you can have peace of mind and focus on the things that are important to you.